Developing Projects in Romania: Land, Permits & Contracts
By Szilaghi Law · Updated 28 October 2026 · General information, not legal advice
Developing a project in Romania follows a fixed chain: secure the site, obtain an urbanism certificate, change the zoning if needed, complete the environmental procedure, obtain the building permit, build under a solid construction contract and complete reception of works.
Secure the site
Purchase, lease or superficies right, registered in the land book.
Urbanism certificate
Obtain the certificate that sets the planning regime and the approvals needed.
Zoning
Run a PUZ or PUD procedure where the planned project departs from current rules.
Environment
Complete the environmental impact assessment procedure under Law 292/2018 where required.
Building permit
Apply under Law 50/1991 with the technical project and approvals.
Build and receive
Construction contract, site supervision, reception of works and land book registration of the building.
- Land rights
- Urbanism certificate
- Zoning plan approvals
- Environmental decision
- Utility approvals
- Building permit
- Construction contract
- Reception minutes
- Sequence. Each step depends on the previous one; skipping ahead creates defects.
- Challenges. Zoning plans and permits can be challenged by third parties.
- Construction risk. Price, delay and defect risks must be allocated clearly.
How long does a building permit take?
Once a complete file is submitted, the authority has a statutory deadline, but the approvals listed in the urbanism certificate usually take longer than the permit itself.
Is FIDIC used in Romania?
Yes, especially for infrastructure and energy projects, usually with Romanian law amendments.
Tell us the decision you need to make
Describe the transaction or regulatory issue, the Romanian assets involved and your timetable.
Consultation